INSIGHT Magazine July 2017 | Page 39

I ’m a huge fan of plaster of paris. It’s amazing what some people can create with the simple - yet messy - mixture. My current paper mache obsession are these gorgeous flowers! Cut your faux flowers off the stems. Use hot glue to keep your flower together if you re- move too much of the center of the flower. Mix your paper mache mixture in a deep bucket. Dip your flowers. It works best to swirl your flower around, making sure all layers are coated in plaster. Place your flower on wax paper to dry and use your fingers to position the petals how you like. You may even want to arrange some petals in the center of your flower to hold a votive candle. Use a small rubber band to hold the petals in place until they dry. Want colored flowers? Use tint or food col- oring to add a little color to your petals, or simply paint them once they’re dry! You can use these flowers as center pieces, mantel decorations, or use them to fancy up otherwise ordinary items. While there are boxes of this magic powder available at Walmart or Lowes, I prefer to make my own by mixing flour and water. What You’ll Need: • faux flowers • plaster (or flour) • water • deep bucket to mix • wax paper • metal clippers • hot glue gun and glue sticks INSIGHT Hint: you don’t have to spend a ton on your faux flowers, but keep in mind that large, stiff pet- als work best! Plaster of paris old plastic ani- July 2017 39